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The Creamsicle Margarita is one of the simplest blended recipes out there, and what makes it really special is the vanilla ice cream. The predominant flavors are orange and vanilla, hence the name.

This recipe is a little bit richer than most blended margaritas, due to the ice cream. It adds a milkshake style creaminess to the texture and more sweetness to the taste.

This drink is wonderful as a dessert substitute. I prefer vanilla bean ice cream, but French vanilla is also wonderful. But it’s worth getting a really good vanilla with a flavor you love – it will add a lot to the drink.

The recipe doesn’t specify a type of tequila. You can use whatever you like. I used a silver tequila because that’s my preference, and I always have it on hand. Gold tequila will work just as well.

Creamsicle Margarita against orange backdrop

And you don’t really need to use a top shelf one in this drink. The taste of it doesn’t come across that strongly, with all the orange, citrus and vanilla in the drink.

This is also one of those times when a snob will tell you it’s crucial to fresh squeeze your orange juice. Well, not really. I suggest you use a good orange juice that’s not from a concentrate – you have to read the labels in stores to see what I’m talking about.

Most of them are from concentrate instead of real fruit juice. Simply Orange brand is actual orange juice and not much else.

The Creamsicle Margarita is obviously a great drink to cool off with. But if you want to pair it with a meal, think about things that would taste good with an orange and vanilla milkshake.

Try this Smashburger Spicy Cowboy Burger from Creative Culinary – the spicy and savory flavors contrast wonderfully with the sweet creaminess of this cocktail.

If you enjoy this drink, check out the Vanilla Creamsicle, which uses milk instead of ice cream and adds a touch of chocolate.